Name: Italian Sausage and Tomato Skillet Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 T. Extra virgin olive oil; 1 Medium onion, diced; 2 Medium garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 lb. Italian sausages, casings removed; 2 c. Cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 c. Marinara sauce; 1 c. Beef broth, preferably low sodium; 12 oz. Frozen tortellini, not thawed; 3 c. Baby spinach; 1/4 c. Heavy cream; 1/2 c. Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1/4 c. Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus more for garnish); Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

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Savor the rich and hearty flavors of Italian Sausage and Tomato Skillet Tortellini, a dish that promises to command attention at your dining table. This one-pot wonder melds the savory zest of Italian sausages with the vibrant sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all nestled among pillows of cheese-filled tortellini.

Each spoonful is a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes, enhanced by aromatic garlic, onions, and a velvety marinara sauce that lovingly coats the pasta. Finished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a flourish of basil, this meal is not just a feast for the palate but also a delight for the senses.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Quick and simple to prepare, this one-pot recipe means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring every bite with friends and family.
Bursting with authentic Italian flavors, this dish combines the robust taste of sausage with the fresh, sweet notes of tomatoes and the rich depth of marinara sauce.
The addition of beef broth and heavy cream creates a luxuriously creamy texture that turns this skillet tortellini into a comforting and satisfying meal.
Perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to leisurely weekend dinners, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily scaled up to feed a crowd or down for a cozy meal for two.

What is tortellini?

Tortellini is a small, ring-shaped pasta traditionally stuffed with a mix of meats, cheese, or spinach. This pasta originated in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna, specifically the towns of Bologna and Modena, where it is often served in a rich broth or with a savory sauce. The precise folds and filling of tortellini are a testament to the artistry of Italian pasta craft, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, extra virgin olive oil adds a nuanced flavor with fruity, bitter, and spicy notes, and serves as the perfect medium for sautéing the onion and garlic.
Onion: Choose a medium onion, which will be diced to provide a sweet and mellow base that complements the robust flavors of the other ingredients.
Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses the dish with its pungent and earthy aroma, a quintessential element that intensifies the overall taste.
Italian Sausages: For the heart of the dish, select Italian sausages with the casings removed; their herby and slightly spicy flavors will permeate the sauce and tortellini.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes offer bursts of juicy sweetness and vivid color, brightening the dish and providing a fresh counterpoint to the meaty sausages.
Marinara Sauce: Use a quality marinara sauce to drench the ingredients in a rich and tangy tomato base that’s both comforting and full-bodied.
Beef Broth: Incorporate low sodium beef broth to enhance the savoriness of the sauce, adding depth without overwhelming saltiness.
Frozen Tortellini: Choose high-quality frozen tortellini for convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture, ensuring that the cheese-filled pasta cooks perfectly in the skillet.
Baby Spinach: Toss in baby spinach for a touch of earthy greens; it wilts effortlessly into the sauce, adding nutrition and a pop of color.
Heavy Cream: A splash of heavy cream transforms the sauce into a luxuriously creamy coating for the tortellini, creating an indulgent and smooth finish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melds into the sauce with a salty, nutty profile, and also serves as a garnish for an extra layer of complexity.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Fragrant basil, roughly chopped, infuses the dish with a sweet, peppery flavor that enhances its freshness, with extra for garnishing to add a final herbal touch.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Seasonal sea salt and freshly ground black pepper are the final adjustments to taste, elevating the natural flavors present in the skillet.

Substitutions and Additions

For those looking to tailor the Italian Sausage and Tomato Skillet Tortellini to dietary preferences or simply to experiment with new flavors, consider the following substitutions and additions:

Olive Oil: If extra virgin olive oil is not available, you can use regular olive oil or any neutral-tasting oil like avocado oil for sautéing.
Onion and Garlic: Shallots can be used in place of onion for a milder taste, while garlic powder can substitute minced garlic when in a pinch, although fresh is preferred for optimal flavor.
Italian Sausages: For a lighter variant, turkey or chicken sausage can be used. Vegetarians might opt for a plant-based sausage to keep the hearty texture without the meat.
Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes make a good alternative to cherry tomatoes, or you can use diced regular tomatoes as a substitute.
Marinara Sauce: If marinara sauce is not on hand, a can of crushed tomatoes seasoned with Italian herbs can serve as a simple substitute.
Beef Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth for a different flavor profile or a vegetarian option.
Frozen Tortellini: For a gluten-free alternative, look for gluten-free tortellini or use gluten-free pasta. Ravioli can also be used for a similar stuffed pasta experience.
Baby Spinach: Arugula or kale can replace baby spinach for a different type of green with more peppery or earthy notes, respectively.
Heavy Cream: For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk can provide a similar creaminess with a subtle coconut flavor. Alternatively, use a cashew cream or lactose-free cream if lactose is the concern.
Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast or a plant-based Parmesan cheese substitute can be used for a dairy-free or vegan version.
Fresh Basil Leaves: For a different herbal note, try incorporating fresh oregano or thyme.

Additions

Protein: To increase the protein content, consider adding cooked beans, lentils, or chickpeas.
Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to increase the variety of vegetables in the dish.
Heat: For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sauteing the onions and garlic.
Cheese: Ricotta or goat cheese can offer a tangy, creamy addition when dolloped on top before serving.
Crunch: Add a final texture contrast with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs sautéed in garlic and olive oil just before serving.

Consider these options when customizing this dish to suit your palate or to add a twist to this classic Italian comfort food.

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.

Place the Italian sausages into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break them apart. Cook until the sausages are nicely browned and mostly cooked through, which should take around 4-5 minutes.

Include thinly sliced cherry tomatoes, marinara sauce, and beef broth to enhance the flavor profile.

Turn up the heat to medium-high and let the mixture come to a boil. Toss in the frozen tortellini and cover it with a lid. Lower the heat to medium and cook it for the shortest recommended time on the package instructions to achieve that perfect al dente texture, usually around 6-8 minutes.

Add the baby spinach and heavy cream, then gently stir until well combined.

Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach wilts to perfection.

Remove the pan from heat. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the parmesan will contribute saltiness to the overall flavor.

Incorporate the parmesan and fresh basil into the mixture, gently stirring until well combined.

Enjoy this dish right away, accompanied by a delightful garden salad and crispy breadsticks.

Recipe tips

Consistency Is Key: To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or thin, adjust the heat as needed throughout cooking and add extra broth sparingly only if the mixture seems too dry.
Cheese Matters: Grate your own cheese for the freshest flavor and optimal melting quality rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which may include anti-caking agents.
Simmering: Allow the marinara sauce and broth to simmer a bit before adding the tortellini to let the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
Tortellini Watch: Keep a close eye on the tortellini to avoid overcooking; pasta continues to cook even after it’s been removed from the heat.
Fresh Finish: Add the basil after the skillet is pulled from the heat to preserve its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
Resting Time: Let the skillet rest for a couple of minutes after cooking and before serving; this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle.

Storage & reheating

For storing leftovers of the Italian Sausage and Tomato Skillet Tortellini, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Freezing is an option, although the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon thawing; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to reheat, gently warm the refrigerated dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight before heating. Alternatively, you can microwave single portions using a microwave-safe dish, covered, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Remember, high heat can cause the pasta to become overly soft, so be sure to reheat it slowly and check frequently for the desired temperature.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this recipe without using pork sausage?

Yes, the Italian sausage component can be replaced with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegan sausage alternative for those who do not consume pork or are looking for a lighter option.

Is there a low-carb version of this skillet tortellini?

For a low-carb alternative, you can substitute the tortellini with vegetables such as spiralized zucchini or roasted cauliflower. This will drastically reduce the carbohydrate content while still providing a satisfying meal.

How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?

For a kid-friendly version, consider using mild sausages instead of spicy ones, skip the red pepper flakes, and make sure to cut the tortellini into smaller, bite-size pieces if they are too large for younger children.

Can the Italian Sausage and Tomato Skillet Tortellini be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to the point just before adding the tortellini and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the base, then cook the tortellini as instructed for a fresh result.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh basil?

While fresh basil provides a burst of flavor, in a pinch, you can use a teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Add it to the sauce early to give it time to rehydrate and infuse.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For those who enjoy heat, you can add extra red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce to the skillet to achieve your desired level of spiciness.